Beijing means ‘Northern Capital’. In addition to being one of the most ancient cities in China, it is widely regarded as the cultural centre of the country, famous for its museums, palaces and picturesque parks. The diversity of the city’s architecture, ranging from ancient temples to modern skyscrapers, even within the same block, will leave you amazed.

Although Beijing has undergone massive and rapid modernisation, the city has managed to keep its charm. Small tea houses hidden in cosy lanes, traditional stores, ancient temples and bustling streets make this city very special indeed.

Aeroflot operates direct flights from Moscow to Beijing. Flights arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport (BCIA) in about eight hours. This is the fastest and most convenient way to get to the capital of China.

Since the most affordable tickets often sell out quickly, we recommend that you book your flights well in advance. The best deals are for round trips and connecting flights.

General flight information Moscow — Beijing

Distance between cities

5 793 km

Time difference in winter

+5 h

Time difference in summer

+5 h

Average direct flight time

7 h 30 m

What to see

In the heart of Beijing lies the Forbidden City, or Gugong. As the first Chinese landmark to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1987, it is recognised worldwide as a standard for traditional Chinese palace architecture. The largest palatial complex in the world, it is where the imperial families of the Ming and the Qing resided. In those times, ordinary citizens were prohibited from entering the palace. Violation of this ban was punishable by death. Nowadays, the Forbidden City serves as a museum where unique historical artifacts and works of art are exhibited.

The Forbidden City consists of beautiful gardens, expansive courtyards, majestic halls, and medieval compounds. The main gate between the Forbidden City and the world outside is called Tiananmen, or the Gate of Heavenly Peace. From atop this gate, imperial decrees were read and, in 1949, Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

The gate leads to Tiananmen Square — the main public square in Beijing and a must-see for domestic and international visitors. The scale and magnitude of the square is impressive. Every morning, at the northern end facing the Forbidden City, witness the raising of the flag in a captivating, solemn ceremony. You can also watch diverse spectacles, ranging from military parades to hordes of people flying kites, depending on time, season and occasion. Tiananmen Square is also home to the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. The National Grand Theatre can also be found nearby.

Not far from the square is the Temple of Heaven (Tiantan), built in the fifteenth century. Chinese emperors came here every winter solstice to offer prayers for a good harvest.

While visiting Beijing, you should dedicate an entire day to conquering the Great Wall of China, one of the most stunning fortifications in the history of mankind. In the 3rd century BC, construction began on a physical barrier to protect imperial lands from nomad invasions. Because much of the Great Wall has been damaged by time and neglect, only certain sections are open to tourists. The landmark symbolizes the power and fortitude of the Chinese people. Locals often quote Mao Zedong: ‘He who has not been to the Great Wall of China has not visited China’.

It is simply impossible not to mention the cuisine. Every meal here is a delectable little ceremony, with dinner being the most important meal of the day. Whether you order Peking duck or sweet-and-sour pork, you will not be disappointed. And don’t forget to attend a traditional tea ceremony, where you will be offered a variety of fragrant homegrown teas.